Nandurbar: Mountain Landscapes, Temples and Fairs

Toranmal is a hill station with lush landscapes, mountains, valleys, waterfalls and numerous earthen pillars. Guided nature walks in the forests around Toranmal offer the opportunity to observe various bird species and native wildlife. The availability of guided walks may vary. The Sita-Khaani Valley near Toranmal is associated with local folklore and captivating tales. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Yashwant Lake. As boating availability is seasonal, check before your trip.

State buses to Toranmal run from Dhule, Nandurbar and Shahada. Routes and frequency may change, so check the schedules before departure.

Religious Sites and Architecture

Asthamba is a religious site in the Nandurbar region, located in Akrani tehsil. The Asthamba fair is considered one of the most important fairs for tribal communities in southern Gujarat and northwestern Maharashtra. Prakasha, in Shahada tehsil of Nandurbar district, is another religious centre on the banks of the Tapi. Prakasha is known as South Kashi. The Kedareshvara Temple has two domes and a round tower at the front.

In Sarangkheda, the Shri Datta Mandir is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya and is believed to be almost a century old. The temple complex at Sarangkhed is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features intricately carved stone pillars, sculpted idols and a sacred water tank.

Festivals and Seasons

The Chetak Festival in Sarangkheda has a history of more than 350 years. Having started as a horse-trading market, it has developed into an equestrian and horse event. The festival takes place in December on the banks of the Tapti. A large fair is held in Sarangkheda every year on Datta Jayanti.

Sarangkheda is best experienced during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. December falls within this period and is also the month of the Chetak Festival. Confirm the specific dates each year before your trip.

Springs, Landmarks and Remembrance

The Unapdev hot springs are 6 km from the village of Adavad, in Shahada tehsil of Nandurbar district, Maharashtra. They are 25 km from Shahada. The water flows from a formation shaped like a cow's mouth. The Dargah of Syed Allaudin, also known as Imam Saheb's Dargah, is a prominent religious landmark offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Nandurbar is also connected with the history of the independence struggle: in 1942, Shirishkumar Mehta led a protest march against the government there. He was killed after the march.

For your planning, the main attractions can be compared: Toranmal is known for mountain landscapes and nature activities; Asthamba, Prakasha and Sarangkheda for religious sites, architecture and festival traditions.

Discover more destinations: Mandvi Kh, South Sikkim, Osmanabad, Washim, Dhule, Palghar, Buldhana, Parbhani

For the full travel overview: Maharashtra.